Tennova Healthcare Shares Four Smart Steps to Avoid the Flu
10/18/2018
It’s never too early for a reminder on how to avoid contracting the seasonal virus
Across the country, last year’s flu season saw increased walk-in clinic and emergency department visits, heightened influenza-related hospitalizations and geographically widespread activity, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC). To reduce your likelihood of infection this year, Tennova Healthcare recommends four smart steps you should take.
“It all starts with the flu shot,” said Kaneez Leonard, M.D., a family medicine physician with Tennova Healthcare. “Getting a flu shot is the most obvious way to prevent influenza. Even when a vaccine is not a perfect match for a flu strain, it still benefits the recipient by decreasing the intensity and duration of the illness and preventing complications.”
But Dr. Leonard advises there are several other common-sense things you can do to lower your chances of infection.
Is It the Flu?
Unlike a cold, the flu typically comes on suddenly. It is a contagious respiratory virus, which individuals may unknowingly spread before experiencing symptoms. According to the CDC, flu symptoms include:
- Fever or feeling feverish/chills (though not everyone with flu will have a fever)
- Cough
- Sore throat
- Runny or stuffy nose
- Muscle or body aches
- Headaches
- Fatigue
- Loss of appetite
- Vomiting and diarrhea (which are more common in children)
If you suspect the flu, go to a doctor right away. The flu can lead to serious complications, including pneumonia.
“Washing your hands consistently throughout the day is one of the most effective and easiest ways to prevent the spread of the influenza virus.” Dr. Leonard said. “Additionally, I encourage individuals to keep their hands away from their face. Microscopic germs find their way into our bodies most often through hand-to-eye, nose or mouth contact. Be aware that door knobs and handles, office coffee pots and grocery carts can carry the virus, too.”
A final recommendation from Dr. Leonard is to avoid contact with sick people. “Individuals can still be contagious for 24 hours after a fever and other symptoms cease. They may say they feel fine, but they could still be infectious,” she said.
If you do become ill and suspect the flu virus, see your doctor or visit a walk-in clinic. You may receive a prescription for an antiviral medication, which can lesson flu symptoms and help you recover faster. According to Dr. Leonard, this is a critically important step for those who are at higher risk for flu complications, such as young children, adults age 65 and over, and those with lung disease and compromised immune systems.
When you are ill, you can help curtail the spread of viruses by staying home (except for medical care visits) until you have been symptom-free for 24 hours. You can also protect others from your coughs and sneezes by turning away from people and bringing your sleeved arm up to sneeze or cough into your elbow.
“If the last few years have been any indication, this year’s flu season could be severe,” Dr. Leonard said. “Individuals at higher risk for flu-related complications should see their doctor immediately—if they suspect they have the flu—to ensure they are closely monitored.”
For more information or to find a doctor, call 1-855-TENNOVA (836-6682).
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